Cube Audio Nenuphar Single Driver Speaker (10 inch) TQWT Enclosure

Another teaser from 6Moons... A driver based on the Neo V2 and F10 Select.

New Cube Audio Driver

David, yes I will be evaluating headphone performance as well especially since the mystery amp, a Decware Taboo MK IV, is actually a headphone amp that is also designed to drive speakers. My current long time headphone amp is a Melos SHA 1 which, despite its age (mid ’90’s), fixed power cord and single tube circuit, has held pride of place against all challengers, most recently the VR L2iSE (which admittedly is not designed as a headphone amp). My headphones are Hifiman HE1000se.

Despite my curiosity to hear the V2 driver, I’m approaching the decision not to upgrade simply on the basis of the new driver’s 3db loss of sensitivity. Even if one of the solid state amps wins the up coming shoot out, I think I would still want the original driver’s 93db sensitivity to check out other lower watt tube amps in the future. One of the great attributes of the original Nen driver IMHO is that it behaves as if it has much higher sensitivity, say 96 or 98db, probably because its load doesn’t dip below 4 ohms. I know Vinpic is happy with the upgrade and its pairing with the Enleum 23R, so if that amp emerges head and shoulders above the rest, I might reconsider. We’ll see.

@stephendunn  Stephen, thanks for the added clarity. Looking forward to all of your combinations and your final assessments. I have the HE1K and the 560, however, my reference are the Utopias. At some point, a new / different topology headamp is in my future, therefore the interest in your findings.

I've known of the 3dB drop in sensitivity for what seems like ages now. C'mon Cube Audio! : )

Given my choice of the 2A3 amp and purposely speccing it for 3 watt output...the V2 drivers are not going to work for me because I'm fully invested in Scott Sheaffer's Found Music amp build.

Stephen, I'm in agreement with your assessment (and current position) and how a new choice may impact your decision regarding V1 v. V2.

Photos of the Nenuphar V2 in a room in New Zealand, courtesy of Mono and Stereo.

Cube Audio Nenuphar V2 In Room Photos

[Note: it appears the 'spec' information shared is from Cube Audio's site and is for the V1]